Checking the Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

Checking the Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

2WD Models:

4WD Models:

1. Before driving, the ATF level can be checked at ATF temperatures of 30° to 50°C (86° to 122°F) using the COLD range on the ATF level gauge as follows:
a. Park the vehicle on a level surface and set the parking brake.
b. Start the engine and move the selector lever through each gear position. Shift the selector lever into the P position.
c. Check the ATF level with the engine idling.
d. Remove the ATF level gauge and wipe it clean with a lint-free paper.

CAUTION: When wiping the ATF from the ATF level gauge, always use a lint-free paper, not a cloth.

e. Re-insert the ATF level gauge into the charging pipe until the cap contacts the top of the charging pipe as shown.

CAUTION: To check ATF level, insert the ATF level gauge until the cap contacts the top of the charging pipe, with the gauge reversed from the normal inserted position.

f. Remove the ATF level gauge and note the ATF level. If the ATF level is at low side of range, add ATF to the transmission through the charging pipe.

CAUTION: Do not overfill the transmission with ATF.

g. Install the ATF level gauge and the ATF level gauge bolt.
ATF level gauge bolt: Refer to AT-256, Components.
2. Warm up the engine and transmission.
3. Check for any ATF leaks.
4. Drive the vehicle to increase the ATF temperature to 80°C (176°F).
5. Allow the ATF temperature to fall to approximately 65°C (149°F) Use the CONSULT-II to monitor the ATF temperature as follows:

NOTE: The ATF level will be significantly affected by the ATF temperature as shown. Therefore monitor the ATF temperature data using the CONSULT-II.

a. Connect CONSULT-II to data link connector.
b. Select MAIN SIGNALS in DATA MONITOR mode for A/T with CONSULT-II.
c. Read out the value of ATF TEMP 1.

6. Re-check the ATF level at ATF temperatures of approximately 65°C (149°F) using the HOT range on the ATF level gauge as shown. The HOT range is between 50° - 80°C (122° - 176°F).

CAUTION:
^ When wiping the ATF from the ATF level gauge, always use lint-free paper, not a cloth.

^ To check the ATF level, insert the ATF level gauge until the cap contacts the top of the charging pipe, with the gauge reversed from the normal inserted position as shown.

7. Check the ATF condition.
^ If the ATF is very dark or has some burned smell, there may be an internal problem with the transmission. Flush the transmission cooling system after repairing the transmission.
^ If the ATF contains frictional material (clutches, bands, etc.) replace the radiator and flush the transmission cooler lines using cleaning solvent and compressed air after repairing the transmission.
8. Install the ATF level gauge in the charging pipe.
9. Tighten the ATF level gauge bolt to specification.
ATF level gauge bolt: Refer to AT-256, Components.